Many people have experienced a "creaking" or "kling" sound when their knees bend, straighten, or rise from a sitting position. This condition often causes concern, especially if the sound occurs repeatedly. So, is this knee noise dangerous?
Knee popping sounds are quite common and don't always indicate a serious problem. However, in certain circumstances, they can be a sign of knee joint problems.
Why Do Knees Make a Cracking Sound?
The sound of a knee popping when bent is medically known as crepitus . This condition can be caused by several things, including:
- Gas bubbles in joint fluid
Joints contain a fluid that acts as a lubricant. When the joint moves, gas bubbles in this fluid can burst, causing a "cracking" sound. This condition is generally harmless. - Friction of the tissues around the knee
Tendons or ligaments that shift during knee movement can also cause popping sounds. This often occurs in people who are active or exercise. - Joint surfaces are no longer smooth
With age or due to overuse of the joints, the cartilage in the knee can thin. This causes the joint surface to become uneven and produce a clicking sound when moving.
When Should Knee Noises Be a Cause for Concern?
Although often harmless, knee popping sounds should be taken seriously if they are accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Pain in the knee when moving
- The knee feels swollen
- Knees feel stiff or difficult to move
- The knee feels unstable or like it is going to “pop”
If knee sounds appear along with these complaints, there could be a problem with the structure of the knee such as a meniscus injury, cartilage damage, or osteoarthritis .
How to Maintain Healthy Knee Joints
To keep your knee joints healthy and reduce the risk of knee complaints, there are several things you can do, including:
- Maintain an ideal body weight so that the load on the knees is not excessive
- Regularly do light exercise such as walking or cycling
- Warm up before exercise
- Avoid activities that put excessive pressure on the knees.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
If the knee noise is persistent and accompanied by pain or swelling, you should consult an orthopedic specialist immediately. Further examination can help determine the cause and determine appropriate treatment, ensuring proper knee function.
Maintaining joint health from an early age is crucial, especially for those who are active or entering adulthood. With proper treatment, various knee problems can be prevented before they become more serious.
Article written by Dr. Othdeh Samuel, Sp.OT, FICS, Subsp PL (K), AIFO-K (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist, Hip & Knee Subspecialist, EMC Pekayon & Cibitung Hospital).